Create It

Vintage Books, Seeded Eucalyptus and a Bit of Sparkle!

Vintage engineering books, seeded eucalyptus, mercury glass, and some printer's type set letters all came together to don our winter fireplace. It all started with a box of vintage engineering books that belonged to our good friend, Joe Bonk, who passed away last March. His wife, Janet, was "excavating" Joe's room, and feeling a lot overwhelmed. She turned to me and said, "and what am I going to do with these old engineering books?" I immediately replied, "Vintage books are really hot in home decor. I'll take them." We packed the books and I'm sure Janet thought I was crazy. They were old, weathered, and some were missing parts of covers. They were PERFECT!

Thus, began the inspiration for our cozy fireplace decor.

Our fireplace mantel is very, very narrow. It is only 4 inches wide across most of it's length, with a little more to work with on each end. The ends wrap around the fireplace bump out. I had to get creative and work with the space I had. I began by stacking books on the left side of the fireplace. This is the widest spot. I loved reading the titles of each book I selected. I could hear Professor Bonk expounding on the knowledge gleaned from each volume. (Joe Bonk was an engineer and taught engineering at the Community College of Allegheny County. He was much loved by family, friends, and the students he taught.)

The mercury glass candlestick was the perfect contrast to top off the first stack of books.

Next, I tackled the right side of the fireplace. I decided to mix things up and lean a couple of books against a mercury glass candlestick.

As I've shared before, our television is mounted above our fireplace and the sound bar is below. We spend most of our time in our family room/kitchen combination. The space is designed for the way we live. Admittedly, it can be a challenge to "accessorize", but as you can see--I chose to take the challenge and plunge forward.

At this point, I was able to position a few books flat and slip them under the sound bar.

The Traveling Curmudgeon--isn't this a great title! It turns out that this book isn't that old. It's copyright is 2003, but the cover graphic, color, and title are just so fun. It makes me smile to have it front and "off-center" on our mantel.

I placed the red volume on the left to balance out the yellow The Traveling Curmudgeon book on the right.

Now, it was time to add some fun and whimsy. I began to "shop" our home for something more. I found it in the living room! My husband is a graphic designer, printer, and so much more. He collects old, type set letters, and we have many of them displayed in a wall mounted, type set printer's drawer in the living room. It houses many treasures. I moved a few to the fireplace mantel to add more vintage charm. Here, we have our last name "JONES" spelled out. The little, tea stained, handmade, snowman just looks so happy to be part of this vignette.

I placed the typeset letters for "FUn" in front of The Traveling Curmudgeon, for obvious reasons.

Finally, I tucked seeded eucalyptus, miniature pine cones, and a few mercury glass votives throughout the display.

The fireplace hearth is adorned with a large lantern, birdhouse, and a pine cone crock. The empty crock was sitting on the floor and looking rather flat. I selected some large coffee table books from places we've been and stacked them. Once the crock was set on top of them, all I needed to do was to move my ever versatile, variegated, philodendron to the crock. The lush, green leaves are a perfect pop of color in the midst of a Pittsburgh winter.

I use books in our decor throughout our home. We love books, and I try to select books that are much loved and/or have memories associated with them.

Now, take a look at the final reveal that all began with a box of vintage, engineering books. I had considered shopping thrift stores for vintage books, but knowing these books were among the treasures of our good friend, Joe, makes them super special. I think he would be very pleased to see his books on display.

Here are a few more ways I've spread the wealth of Joe's books around our home.

This vignette is in our powder room. It is on top of a wall mounted cabinet, opposite the vanity. I am proud of how this vignette came together. I can see changing the snowman candle out for another candle, or maybe one of my Willi Rae figurines come spring.

Note: I did the paint technique on the walls over 15 years ago. It's been fun, but I am thinking of painting over it one of these days.

My Christmas orchid has finished blooming. I cut back the dead stems, and accessorized the decorative white container with dark stones. I love the structural shape of the orchid leaves, in the smooth white fluted container surrounded by black stones, sitting on top of a stack of vintage books. This vignette has contrast, textures, vintage, modern, and organics all rolled into one! I think it works.

There you have it. I used things I already had. I shopped our home and moved a few things to the mantel that had never had a place on the mantel. Last, but not least, I had a lot of fun reading the book titles and adding whimsy to it all. The moral of the story today: Have fun playing with home decor. Seek out things you love and already have and consider giving them a new location!

Yes, you read the title of this post correctly: Planning for Christmas 2018! Do you buy Christmas cards, wrapping paper, and other Christmas items at the after Christmas sales? Have you ever packed said items away and then forgotten where you put them when the holiday comes around? Or, like me, forgot that you even purchased said items and purchase more of that item in November? I have done all of the above. I am also guilty of squirreling a few items in one closet, because I have a little space, and a few items in another drawer--because there is a little space--and completely forgetting what is where!!!

Part of my New Year's Resolution is to store all like items together, AND make a record of it. I am a visual person, so I decided to use my phone to take photos of purchased items for Christmas 2018 and store them in a folder on my computer.

This folder will act as a photo diary. As I purchase or make Christmas gifts throughout the year, I can snap a photo and place it in the "Christmas Ideas 2018" photo. I think I'll make a Word document for making notes throughout the year.

It's January and time for me to dig into closets, cupboards, and pantries and begin my annual organizing, purging, and clean up! We are experiencing record low temperatures and wind chills and since I am cooped up inside, it is the perfect time to set about these tasks.

I sat down to read a few blogs one morning with a cup of coffee in hand. I started coveting the look of organized pantries, with beautiful containers, and pretty shelf paper. My first thought was, my pantry could never look like that, and then, do "these" people really use their pantries? Next thought, "I want...I "need" to go buy all matching beautiful containers"... I "need" to purchase fun shelf paper!"

Time to be practical and logical: Proceed with caution mantra: Clean out, organize, before purchasing "pretty" containers.

Then, reality and practicality set in. I had to slow down, and be true to my philosophy of first, use what I have. Secondly, IF, I were to purchase beautiful, new, matching containers, I needed to measure my spaces first, and take stock of what I really needed. I admit, I have purchased containers recommended by other bloggers or Pinterest boards, only to bring them home and have them be a little too, big, or two wide, and in general, not fit my space. So, I decided to begin with the task of cleaning up, organizing, and assessing what I already have, before running out to get "new" containers--that I might not need and might not work.

Tip: Tackle 1 shelf at a time. I began with the shelf with my pretty canisters, that can't be seen, too well.

I decided to tackle one shelf at a time. Items would be checked for expiration dates, and grouped on my kitchen island by categories. My goal was ultimately, to shelve like items with like items. (I am notorious for "squirreling" things away that are "overflow" items. I find an oh so perfect, second little spot and totally lose track of the "overflow" items. Then, I can't find them when I really need it.) Another goal: Shelve like things together, all in one spot.

Beginning of my pantry inventory for shelf #2. I created this document on my computer using Microsoft Word.

I also, decide to make an inventory of each shelf, so I could locate items and take stock of them, prior to making my grocery shopping list. I have never done this before, but there are many home organizers who recommend this, so I thought I'd give it a try.

I began with shelf #2 that holds many baking supplies. I emptied the entire contents of shelf #2, and organized them in categories. For this shelf it went something like this: flour, sugar, powdered sugar, brown sugar canisters, and 5 lb. bags of flour and sugar; cake mixes, Bisquick, Gingerbread Mix; various syrups: agave, Karo, molasses, maple syrup. If you look closely at the before photo, you'll notice, that some of these items were not housed on that shelf. After I emptied the contents of each shelf and organized the items into categories, I took another look at the whole pantry. I looked for items that should be placed in the categories I had placed on the island. Once again, my goal was to keep like things together on the same shelf.

After clearing the shelf and organizing like items together on my island, I wiped down the shelf. (I'm still dreaming about new shelf paper, but I'm willing to wait until I find something that I really like. After all, the current shelf paper is about 20 years old. I liked it then, I like it now!)

I admit, I like pretty things, even if they are hidden behind the doors of my pantry. Several years ago, I spotted these lovely canisters in TJ Maxx. I purchased them. If I had the counter space, I would display them. They make me happy. I don't have the counter space, so they replaced some bright, yellow, Tupperware canister circa 1970's in the pantry. They do take up more space than other, made for 5 lb. bags of flour and sugar containers. At one time, I had considered, replacing them with something more practical and space saving. I couldn't do it. Pretty trumped, practical in this case.

I came up with a solution for keeping my pretty canisters, while being more efficient with the space. My pantry shelves are 12 inches deep. I decided, I could store the extra 5 lbs. of flour and sugar bags, behind the flour and sugar canisters. The bags would be easy to access when I needed to refill each canister. Before, I had my canisters lined up flush with the wall, and put the refill bags and other items in front of the canister (or on another shelf) and it meant moving the items, every time I wanted to bake.

Three cake mixes are lined up behind brown sugar canister.

Gingerbread baking mix is hidden behind powdered sugar canisters.

Five lb. bags of flour and sugar can easily be stored behind the large canisters.

This idea was one of those, "I can't believe I didn't think of this before!" ideas. I was able to continue to use this same space saving idea, with the cake mixes and gingerbread mix. I stored them behind the smaller canisters. I know that the space behind the canisters will vary as we use and add other food stuffs. I envision, Jiffy Cornbread mixes replacing the gingerbread mix, as Jiffy Cornbread is a common food stuff to accompany winter soups.

Success!: Shelf #2 After Reveal!

I was so pleased with the organized shelf #2, that I continued on to shelf #3. (I was saving shelf #1 for last, as I saw this as my greatest challenge. I was hoping that as I organized the other shelves, ideas would percolate and solutions for the top shelf would come to mind.)

Shelf #3 wasn't too, bad. The Betty Crocker expired frosting was pitched and the spices on the step organizer were checked for expiration dates and re-alphabetized.

Shelf #3 wasn't, too bad. I had done a quick organization of spices in the fall. We purchased this ferris wheel spice rack several years ago. I loved the novelty of it, and have replaced the spices over the years to reflect the ones we use most. That said, I do realize, that it may not be the most practical use of our pantry space, but I've decided to keep it.

I moved the vanilla and other flavorings to the front/right bottom step of the spice rack. I used these flavorings frequently, and decided it was a better placement, than sticking to a rigid alphabetical system of spices. Each individual should use what works best for their personal use.

Shelf #3 involved throwing out a few expired items, wiping the shelf down, organizing the categories on the kitchen island, and perusing the other shelves to see if there were like items to add to this shelf. I wanted to stay true to my goal of keeping like items together. All Pam cooking spray products are lined up in a row, followed by vinegars, followed by olive oil and the like.

Like items lined up with like items, all in on one shelf.

I tackled shelves #4 and #5 and the floor of the pantry all at one time. I had purchased the green bins with handles from the Dollar Tree several years ago. I use them like pull out drawers to contain canned goods and food stuffs by category. I relabeled some of my categories for our current use. Once again, each family's categories will be different. My husband make great pumpkin bread and pumpkin pancakes. I like to make the muffins that require a cake mix and can of pumpkin. (Depending on your preference, spices, an egg, or water can be added to the mix.) Therefore, we always have a green bin labeled "PUMPKIN". That works for us.

Shelves #4, #5, and the floor--BEFORE

I followed the same procedure as the other shelves: empty shelves, organize categorize on the kitchen island, add additional items that may have been placed on other shelves to the categories, and washed the lime green bins.

In case you are wondering, I had repurposed some spring placemats for the shelf paper on these shelves last spring. I was considering donating the placemats to Goodwill, but decided I could use them on these shelves.

I filled the sink with hot, soapy water, and washed the bins.

It's obvious from this "before" shot that the 5 lb. bag of flour and sugar made getting the cereal for breakfast problematic. They were moved behind the canisters to shelf #2. I relocated the plastic cups to a pantry shelf in the basement.

Another look at Shelf #4 "Before"

I labeled all unlabeled bins. I chose to put the bins in alphabetical order.

Shelves #4 and #5--AFTER!!! The bin on the far left contains trash can liners, and cleaners for stainless steel appliances and smooth stove top. This is a convenient place to have these items for our family.

Shelf #4 and the Floor--AFTER! The clear bins are generic plastic bins. The bottom bins should be labeled, "ONIONS", "PUMPKIN", and "POTATOES". (I know they are out of alphabetical order, I read somewhere that onions and potatoes should not be stored together. I had the "PUMPKIN" bin separate them for any infighting.)

The organization of these shelves pleases me. The bottom shelves are actually an old laminate shoe organizer that I repurposed for the pantry. There was this large amount of space and I really needed shelves, so this was my solution when we moved into our home over 20 years ago and it has worked. Maybe one day, I'll actually add "proper" shelves....maybe...

Breakfast cereal was relocated to the far left on the shelf. I relocated the peanut butter and almonds right next to the cereal. Sometimes, I have peanut butter on toast for breakfast. Other times, I might have a handful of almonds or put slivered almonds on my cereal in the morning. It's all about what works for your family.

At this point, I was feeling quite pleased with my pantry organization.

Finally, it was time to tackle the dreaded top shelf! The problem with the top shelf is things get lost on the top shelf. I have repurposed another laminate shoe rack for the top shelf, so there are actually three levels. The very top is awkward to access, but there is so much space. It goes to the ceiling, and I was determined to use it, but in a more functional manner.

The dreaded top shelf--at least what can be seen of it. Believe me, I found a few "lost" objects once I cleared it all out.

I repeated the same process for the top shelf: empty all contents, organize by category on the kitchen island, wash down the shelves, and give serious thought to the use of the very top shelf. As I cleaned up each shelf, I kept asking myself, how can we best use the space? There is limited real estate in this pantry. Items have to be "used" to have prime location in the pantry. (For example: Plastic drinking cups are used for big gathering and buffet type entertaining. They are not an every day item. They were relocated to the pantry in the basement.)

Top Shelf -- AFTER

We seemed to have an abundance of crackers. (Some of them were a little buried and on various shelves.) I used containers I already had to corral them in one place. There are nights when supper is cheese and crackers and a fruit and vegetable tray. Even so, I think we need to pare down the cracker containers and make room for other food stuffs.) Then, it was a matter of opening the bags of chocolate chips, white morsels, cinnamon chips, and putting the various morsels into the containers that I had already established.

Right Top Shelf BEFORE: Teas, coffees, a teapot, and even a stray box of gingerbread mix.

The far right space of the two-tiered laminate shoe organizer has always been a problem. One obvious solution, it to make "proper" shelves that span the entire width of the pantry and eliminate the laminate shoe organizer. That was not in the cards today.

I had stored tea in this space. A Brown Betty teapot is stashed (aka, lost) behind the tea canisters. Some bags of coffee are in the mix, too. All in all, the space wasn't used and access to the tea and makings for tea were not convenient. I decided to move these to lower shelves in the green bins. Tea is much more accessible and I know will be used more.

I think moving the teas and teapot to two bins on a lower shelf makes so much more sense. I know the teapot will get much more use.

Miscellaneous vinegars and a bottle of Marsala wine used in cooking were put in a plastic container and put in the awkward space that used to be home to coffee, tea, and many lost items.

I looked around to see what items had not made it back into the pantry. I had various bottles of flavored vinegars: red wine, white wine, champagne, and a few others. We don't use them that often. I decided to put them on the top shelf in a clear plastic container. I like using these rectangular containers. They can keep like things altogether and can act like a drawer. You can pull it part way off the shelf to access the items within it. I moved the Marsala wine to the same container, as it falls in that "used for cooking-not often" category.

Now, to tackle the tippy-top shelf. It extends to the ceiling, but with my current arrangement, it is awkward to access. Whatever is on that shelf should be something that needs to be stored and is used on occasion. I decided to store some large decorative bowls and serving pieces to my Romance dinnerware collection. My mom gave me quite a few of these pieces. I love getting them out in the fall and using them as part of our decor and having them for special dinners. I also have a large bowl and pitcher from a collection created by Susan Winget. I use these in the fall, too.

Not a great photo, but I have some of my favorite pieces for fall stored on this top shelf.

This isn't a great photo, but you get the idea. I have 4 large serving bowls, a square flat serving plate, a divided serving platter, and the large pitcher stored on this shelf. It took some doing, and yes, I did have to remove the bin of vinegars and 2 containers of nuts to place these large pieces in this space. I think it is going to work. The pieces are now in one place and they are pieces that I use in the late summer and fall. I had one other large platter to this set. I was trying to keep like things together. The platter wouldn't fit on the top shelf, but I was able to store it on another shelf.

Which one of these things, seems out of place?

The shelves in the pantry are fairly wide. I decided I could store the large serving platter behind the cereal. The platter was one item that didn't make it on the same shelf as the other serving pieces from this collection, but I am pleased that all of the pieces are located in the pantry, and not some in the corner cabinet in the kitchen, others in the armoire in the living room, and so on. Now, in the fall, I know these items are altogether, and I can easily retrieve them.

Here's a quick recap.

Before

After!

After: Shelf 1

After: Shelf 2

After: Shelf 3

After: Shelf 4 and 5

After: Shelf 4, 5, and floor

This post wouldn't be complete without sharing one of my favorite organization tools: Command Hooks!

I made use of some of the narrow, side walls of the pantry to hang vanilla beans, coffee, and more coffee on Command Hooks, with the help of some clamps and binders.

At the end of the day, I didn't buy one new (cute) container. I like seeing my pretty canisters and the Dollar Tree green bins give the pantry a pop of color, as well as organization. The clear containers I've had for years fit the space. It all works.

Yes, the shelf paper could be replaced, but I haven't found anything that I really like, yet. Admittedly, the pantry itself, could use a coat of paint and maybe I should install some proper shelves to replace the laminate shoe organizers. All of that can be for another day--or not. Today, I'm pleased and proud of my pantry. I met my goal of arranging items that we use the most in convenient places. I arranged like items together, instead of here and there and everywhere. I used what I already had. As for the pantry inventory--I'll keep you posted on its merits.

I hope I've given you some ideas that might help you organize your kitchen space. I encourage you to adapt these principles to your family's needs: use what you have, organize like items together, label everything, and plan to place items that are most used in the places that are most convenient for your family. It's all about what works for your family!

​I have discovered the transformative powers of spray paint and the plethora of choices in colors and finishes! Spray paint fits right in with my desire to use what I have, recycle that which may be destined for trash, and create something that looks expensive or custom for very little money. ​Today, I am going to attempt to do more of a photo montage of some of the many things I have transformed with spray paint. Preparation and patience are the keys to success with spray paint. I follow the directions for cleaning and prepping each piece, as given on the can. That usually involves a thorough cleaning with dish soap and water, sometimes alcohol, and sometimes sanding. It all depends on the object you are painting. Patience is key. Doing a few light coats helps achieve a smooth drip free finish. Then, follow the recommended drying times on the can. Most times you can give a second coat within an hour.

I gathered a variety of jars from the recycling bin to transform into bright and happy colored jars for the centerpieces of the baby shower. I had an assortment of jars from pickle jars, spaghetti sauce jars, to regular Mason jars. Left over fabric strips from a sewing project were cut with a rotary cutter with a pinking blade, and bright colored buttons were hot glued onto the jars.

​My first attempt at using spray paint was in making centerpieces for a baby shower of two colleagues at school. One was having a boy and one was having a girl. The women were best friends and of course, loved books! The theme for this shower was "The Very Happy Baby Shower", after Eric Carle's "Very Happy" series of books. We decided to go with a bright and colorful theme, so I chose paints in apple green, happy yellow, turquoise blue, and shocking pink. (These are my names for the colors. Just peruse the paint aisle in your local hardware store and just see if all the beautiful colors don't entice you to spray paint "something!")

I don't have any photos to share of the jars at the baby shower. I am happy to say, that they are functional, decor pieces at my nail technician's station. Michelle had recently changed shops and was decorating her room. One day, I noticed that the colors in her curtains were the same colors as my jars. I offered some to her, and now my pickle jars and pizza sauce jars have a new life in her workplace. (A few that were left are now storing scouring pads under the kitchen sink and craft foam brushes in my craft closet. They were much to pretty to just throw away.)

​The cute little table was a found piece that Robert, the shop owner, offered to Michelle. He told her she could paint it. (It was originally white, with a chippy top.) I gave her the rest of my lime green spray paint. Michelle's son came upon her spraying the table and wanted to know if he could get in on the fun. He finished it, and it is a fun, functional, sweet table!

Our theme for this wedding shower was: "Something old and something new, something borrowed and something new. The bride is ready to say 'I do'". I spray painted wine bottles in this beautiful shade of blue. Then I added the silver, glitter paper, lace, and Mr. and Mrs. (The glitter paper is actually covering the labels that we couldn't remove from the bottles. Since then, I have discovered the trick of pouring almost boiling water into a wine bottle, letting it sit a few minutes, and carefully peeling off the label. Sometimes, the label will come off completely intact.)

​We had such success with the spray paint for the baby shower, that when the third grade team was planning a wedding shower and had determined our theme, I offered to spray paint empty wine bottles a beautiful shade of turquoise blue. We wanted the bottles to look like celebratory bottles of champagne.

We added photos of our own weddings and even those of our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents as part of the something old. One staff member had lovely lace tablecloths to adorn our school library tables.

I made printed cut-outs of mason jars and guest wrote tips to the bride on each cut out. I had downloaded some photos of women through the years onto the cut outs. These were all collected and given to the bride.

Aren't those tablecloths beautiful! I made confetti sayings and bottles of champagne on my Cricut machine. Shiny, new pennies sprinkled on the table s for good luck completed the look. Not bad for a school library transformation.

A 1980's white stone lamp with air brushed blue and mauve was transformed into something new.

I found spray painting mason jars, spaghetti jars, and wine bottles easy and the outcome was so fun, I moved on to other things.

I wanted to replace a living room lamp. It was from the 1980's and the shape of and striping on the lamp was very similar to the image at the left. Remember the 80's when pinks, mauves, and turquoises were in fashion? My lamp was not ceramic. It had a pitted stone texture that I actually liked. When I went looking for lamps, I couldn't find the shape and coloring I wanted. Then, I remembered spray paint! Rust-oleum Universal Advanced Formula Spray Paint had some awesome colors and finishes called:Hammered Paint & Primer in One in Dark Bronze, Rosemary, Black, and so many more. Originally, I was going to go with a Hammered Bronze, but after consulting with my husband, we decided on the dramatic Hammered Black.

Here is a close-up of the lamp. I loved the shape and texture of the original lamp. The Rustoleum Hammered Black Spray Paint gave the tired 80's lamp additional texture and I love the final finish after two coats of spray paint.

The Hammered Black Spray Paint created quite a transformation after only two coats of paint. The preparation was minimal. I washed the lamp base in soapy water and let it dry. Then, it was outdoors to spray the lamp.

​The first lamp turned out so well, I went hunting at the thrift stores for another lamp with a pleasing shape. I found a ceramic lamp for $3.00. It was originally cream colored with a stenciled mauve heart and blue accents on it--think Pennsylvania Dutch decor. I did replace the lighting socket with a new one using a kit from the hardware store. There really is nothing to it. I used the same Rustoleum Paint and Primer All-in-One Spray Paine in Hammered Black. The original surface of this lamp was a very smooth ceramic. The hammered paint gave it an additional texture. I purchased a burlap shade at Tuesday Morning and for very little money had a second living room lamp!

​I bought two more thrift store lamps for less than $5.00. I loved the shape of this one. I also got to use the Rust-oleum Universal Advanced Formula Spray Paint in Hammered Paint & Primer in One in Rosemary. It was perfect for our bedroom.

​This sweet, little beauty sits on top of a stack of books on our "telephone" table in the master bedroom. I purchased the matching shades with the geometric print at Target.

​I even spray painted a plastic tissue holder and wastebasket in the master bathroom Hammered Rosemary. Once again, I was looking for a decorative tissue holder. I wasn't finding what I wanted and many were very pricey. I purchased this plastic one for a few dollars and spray painted it! I am very pleased with it.

Before

In Progress

I painted this blonde stained magazine rack black.

New and Improved Black Magazine Rack

Rusted, old, milk can painted Colonial Red

The painted, red, milk jug required a little more preparation. It had been sitting outside and was a little rusty. I gave it a good scrub and then applied naval jelly to it twice. I followed the directions on the bottle of naval jelly, including wearing gloves, safety goggles, and old clothes. The painting of the jug was so satisfying. Spray paint transforms a piece in a matter of minutes! My jug was missing it's lid. I decided to use it as an arrangement piece. I spray painted a medium, sized, plastic pot (from the recycling bin) to match the jug. The pot fit perfectly in the top of the milk jug and it blends right in with it.

I used the Rust-oleum Painters Touch 2X Ultra Cover Paint and Primer to paint the milk jug (Colonial Red) and jars. The cedar chest, dry sink, and magazine rack were painted with Rust-oleum Universal Satin Paint and Primer in One in black. I have had great success with all of these products.

I used Rust-oleum Painters Touch 2X Ultra Cover Paint and Primer to in Colonial Red to paint my truck.

​One of my favorite projects was spray painting my childhood, Tonka truck red. Once again, I gave it a good cleaning, covered the wheels in plastic wrap and painter's tape. I covered the fender, lights, and Tonka logo in painters tape, too. Lastly, I painted it red.

Before

After

Apple green basket planter and chair.

Chair purchased at a thrift store for about $4.00. It had all four legs, was sturdy, and for some reason was reduced in price. It was my lucky find!

Here is the chair and basket painted apple green.

​I've painted jars for almost every season to hold kitchen utensils on top of the refrigerator. Most of the jars are recycled from spaghetti sauce, salsa, and pickles.

Christmas Holiday Jars

It wasn't long before I graduated to larger, furniture projects. We had a cedar chest that had been passed around Bob's family. You know the piece, the one that one aunt passes to her children, and they use it for a few years, until they can afford real furniture. It then gets offered to another cousin, and so on. We were using it as a coffee table in our family room. It was a pretty simple, straightforward design. It was perfect for our decor, but it had some gouges and dings. It looked like someone had tried to restrain it at some point. Tucker, our bichon maltese, had channeled his inner kitten as a puppy and had scratched at it, leaving his own special patina. I decided to sand it down, paint the bottom black and stain the top a rich, warm brown. I did the grunt work for this project, and my husband did the spray painting and staining of the top.

Beneath an attempt at restraining this piece was this beautiful wood! We loved the coloration and grain that was revealed.

​We were thrilled with the results. The piece is solid wood. The bottom box is cedar and smelled so good when I was sanding in preparation for painting. The top ended up being ash, and had beautiful graining and coloring.

We were stunned by the beauty beneath this piece. It was worth the hours of sanding and prepping. The piece is solid wood and was well worth saving. The cedar smelled amazing while I was sanding it!

I really regret not having before and during photos to show you. I did this before I started blogging and I hadn't gotten into any habit of photographing my daily escapades. Trust me, it was an amazing transformation!

Refinished Dry Sink

​The cedar chest coffee table turned out so well, we decided to do a similar staining/paint job on the dry sink in the living room. This dry sink had gone through many transformations. My friend's uncle originally made the dry sink from pieces of scrap wood. It was refinished by her mother at least once. I think Drue might have painted it. Eventually she offered it to me. I painted it again. Later, I gave it back to Drue. I got the dry sink back, when she got married and moved. I painted it a colonial golden yellow after we moved into our house. Many years later, Bob and I were painting and staining it again. I think this is its final transformation. We are so very pleased with the outcome.

Front View of Dry Sink: We added new hardware on the drawer and doors to complete the look.

​After sanding this piece, removing a scalloped edging from the top shelf portion, and sanding some more, we put the first coat of spray paint on it. Once again, I do not have photos to show the progress. After the first coat of paint, the piece looked horrible. The paint was streaky and seemed to be absorbing unevenly. I was concerned that we had invested hours into prepping the piece and it was looking like an epic fail. (Oh, me, of little faith!) My fears were all for nought. The second coat went on and transformed the piece into a beautiful piece of furniture.

​Side View of Dry Sink

Are there imperfections? You bet there are, and we love them. I like to think the dry sink is very happy with its latest redo.

​Bob did replace the scalloped edging that went across the back, with a piece of oak and created the little shelf

When spring rolled around, I wanted a few cake plates. I visited the local thrift store and purchased some candlesticks and plates for a few dollars.

Thrift Store Candlesticks

Plates were adhered to candlesticks with Gorilla Glue.

I spray painted them in white and then gave them another coat of Pearl Mist on a mild spring day. (Pearl Mist spray paint and finish is another color choice of Rust-oleum Paints.)

Foil Bunny on a Spring Cake Plate

​Now, I have several cake plates for home decor. Here are a few ways I used them for spring decor. (If you use these plates for food, it is suggested that the food not be placed directly on the painted surface. You can use doilies, parchment paper, or wax paper under food items.)

Woodland Rabbit on a Small Cake Pedestal

Spring Cloche with Nest on Small Cake Pedestal

​There are days, my husband is concerned that the dog and he might get spray painted. No worries there, but as you can see, I have embraced the power of paint in home decor. It fits well with my philosophy of use what you have available, and reuse and upcycle the old into something new a amazing! I've painted everything from pickle jars, Tonka trucks, tissue boxes, lamps, and furniture. I've even begun to spray paint the heat registers in our home. They are the standard putty color and are 20 years old. A little Rust-oleum Universal Advanced Formula Spray Paint in Hammered Paint & Primer in One in Dark Bronze, and they look like new and have a lot more class.

​I encourage you to take a gander down the spray paint aisle of your local hardware or big box store. All of the beautiful colors and finishes are so-o-o-o enticing. With very little preparation and time, you can transform many items into beautiful, functional pieces with a can of spray paint. Have you tried spray painting something? How did it turn out? I'd love to hear about your spray painting escapades and successes!

Your information will never be shared with a third party.

​I decided to experiment with a more neutral palette for early fall decor. For this personal decor challenge, I decided to use creams, pale blues to turquoise, greens, and black and white. I also decided to move a few things around and use them in different places in our home. This is the joy of choosing pieces that you truly love. They can be used in many places in your home and made to look completely new.

Spring fireplace basket 2017

​I began with the fireplace. I have had the same basket in front of the fireplace for years. I change it up with florals and greenery to suit each season.

Spring

Summer Basket

Autumn

​Christmas

​I liked the basket in front of the fireplace as it filled the black space of the fireplace when it wasn't lit. Sometimes, though, it is good to change out favorite pieces and try something new. The fireplace basket and mantel was the starting place.

​Our mantel is very narrow. I decided to remove the pineapple lanterns that had flanked either side, and just keep it very simple. I moved a berry garland that has been draped above our window blinds in the dining room to the mantel. Then, I tucked in seeded eucalyptus leaves. I'd seen other bloggers using seeded eucalyptus and decided to give it a go. I searched in vain for it at local craft supply sites. I finally ordered some from an Etsy source: La Fleur by ArtistryinFlorals. I am very pleased with this supplier and I look forward ordering more from Brenda King in the future.

I like the airiness and laciness of the seeded eucalyptus. It has a very faint scent and I am told it dries well and can be used year after year. That's my kind of greenery.

The seeded eucalyptus and a berry garland was all I added to the mantel. I wanted to keep it simple. Sometimes, I feel like I've forced more on the mantle, than space allowed. (There have been times when gravity has done its thing and bits and pieces of "decor" have unexpectedly fallen off the mantle!) This time, I decided to decorate within the parameters I had. I'm happy with it.

​Next, I began restaging the fireplace hearth. Remember, I wanted to change out the basket that had been positioned there for years. I went in search of a tall lantern. I saw some beautiful lanterns at one of our local markets. I thought I would give myself permission to splurge on this one item, until I found the lantern in the photo at TJ Maxx Home Good Store for less than half of the one I had been coveting. I purchased the flameless battery operated candle, with a remote, the lantern, and decorated it for much less than the price of just the lantern from the inspirational piece. Score!

​I placed the rustic, green birdhouse next to the lantern as an accent piece. I added a green, cream, blue, and eggplant pip berry candle ring to the candle. I also placed some small, green, faux apples inside the lantern. I may need to play around with the arrangement to make the inside decor of the lantern more visible. Any ideas?

​I offset the tall lantern featured on the right side of the fireplace, with a vintage coal bucket filled with faux lavender and birch logs. All of these items, including the coal bucket, were repurposed from other parts of our home. The tall lantern with the flameless candle was the only new piece in this vignette. (I did mention that I got a great deal on the lantern at Home Goods, didn't I? I love a good deal!)

​Before I show you the fireplace baskets new home in the dining room, here are a few more subtle fall additions to our family room.

​The change of season is a perfect time to review the treasures hidden away, deep in your cupboards. This rather large sunflower pitcher with its beautiful, blue glaze is a perfect vase for hydrangeas from the yard. (These hydrangeas are actually dried and holding their lime green color.) The stack of books and dried, log slab add height and even more texture to the vignette. I positioned a gourd gravy boat to the right of the pitcher and added more dried hydrangeas. The pumpkin scented candle from Pier One was the only new piece that I purchased.

​I added a black and white piece of fleece that I purchased from JoAnn Fabrics to the back of the rocking chair. (I have a thing about rocking chairs. I like them. We have one in the family room, one in the living room, and two on the deck.) I haven't quite decided which pillow I like best on the Amish, cherry rocker in our living room. The pillow on the left is a print on canvas of a painting my husband, Bob, did of an area covered bridge. The red covered bridge gives a great pop of color.

​I draped a fall quilt that I made several years ago over the back of this teal, leather recliner. As you can see, I moved the "Give Thanks" pillow to this chair--for now. I like to have choices and enjoy changing things up!

I accessorized the loveseat with a black and white buffalo plaid pillow that I had made in January. Once I made my first no sew table runner with black grow grain ribbon with white polka dots, I decided to bring back the black and white buffalo plaid pillow. It is such a classic. Click HERE for the coffee table table runner.

All is not what it seems, in this photo. The turquoise cake plate upon which the pumpkin sits, is not really a cake plate. Click HERE for the Fall Decor: Easy as 1, 2, 3 post for the secret to this vignette. ​

Keeping with the theme of simplicity, I moved the blue enamel bowl that has been housed on the kitchen counter to the living room side table. (I have another sunflower bowl that I can replace it with to house placemats, bananas, and basic counter clutter. It's amazing how housing items altogether on a tray or bowl, can make what was clutter, something decorative and functional.) I added my philodendron plant to the bowl and perched it on a set of books, covered with a swatch of fringed burlap. Layering and creating varying heights is a good way to add interest to a vignette. Lastly, I finished it with a (faux) white pumpkin and orange candle.

But, I'm thinking a few sprigs of seeded eucalyptus might be a nice addition.

​ I played around with a layering a small, turquoise, cake plate on top of a very subtle, neutral placemat. The last layer was the pumpkin--unadorned. The placemat has a little bit of glitter sparkle and is actually quite elegant. It was purchased from Pier One.

​My favorite part of decorating for different seasons, is "playing" with "stuff". When I take my time, and just "play" with my "toys", I almost enter a meditative state. Does that make sense, (or make me sound weird?) I am at my best, when I can be in the moment and experiment with textures, layers, and colors. Plus, I love having choices. I don't always leave an arrangement the same for days. Sometimes, I change it out, add, or subtract from it.

I added a layer of seeded eucalyptus in this equation. I guess it is now a 1, 2, 3, 4 arrangement:placemat + cake plate + pumpkin + seeded eucalyptus.

This is the arrangement I settled on...for today!

​My Tonka truck, that I spray painted red, is a standard in my decorating arsenal. This is my truck from childhood, that I spent many happy hours, playing in the dirt with the boys.

I added a few sprigs of seeded eucalyptus to my bright, red Tonka truck. I might need to add a few miniature pumpkins to the back end, too.

Now, to the fireplace basket, that I moved to the dining room table. This vintage basket has been a favorite of mine for years. I know I have had it for 10 years and maybe more than 15 years. This basket always holds a secret. When I arrange florals in it, I use two old bricks with holes in them. The holes act as a frog for holding and anchoring floral stems.

This fall basket arrangement has a secret, too. Most of the small pumpkins in this arrangement were orange, green metallic, or red metallic pumpkin Dollar Tree pumpkins. I painted the dollar store finds with cream and blue chalk paint. The large pumpkin was purchased at TJ Maxx. (TJ Maxx has a beautiful assortment of pumpkins this year. I don't NEED any more pumpkins, but they have some beautiful, reasonably priced velvet pumpkins, glass pumpkins, and every color you can imagine!) ​

This fall arrangement was really as easy as 1, 2, 3...basket, seeded eucalyptus, and pumpkins! (Another secret: I left the bricks in the bottom of the basket as a filler and to give height to the arrangement. Plastic grocery bags were stuffed around the bricks for added filler. I am not too, proud to use what I have and "disguise" it, rather than purchasing something that will do the job, but adds to the cost of the project.)

I am loving the seeded eucalyptus. I think it is my favorite decorating ​find of this season

​In case you missed the post, this is the no-sew, black and white, buffalo plaid, fleece runner that I made, and you can, too. Click HERE for the post. At first, I was feeling a little guilty, because I didn't put one stitch in this runner and it came together in about an hour. I had to give up the notion, that for a project to be successful, it had to be hard and take a lot of time. Who needs that? Who has the time for that? I offer this tutorial to you, and guess what--I think I may repeat this runner for my kitchen island!

Finally, I will always have a touch of whimsy in my home decor. My Willie Rae hen with children selling eggs, just makes me smile. It's not particularly fall, it is just fun! I encourage you to always add some fun when you decorate

​I'm doing fall decor in two phases. Early fall for me encompasses sometime in August through the beginning of October. The first phase for fall 2017, included a neutral color scheme in creams, blues, "pear greens", and a little eggplant. Seeded eucalyptus was a new player and one that I have completely embraced. Polka dots and black and white buffalo plaid make a strong appearance as classics that just make me happy. I also wanted to keep fall accents simple.

​Phase 2 will begin in October and extends through Thanksgiving.. I will get my boxes of orange and red garlands, florals, and pumpkins out of storage. I will buy mums for outdoor. My intent, is to add touches of oranges and red to the neutral decor already in place. You may have noticed that the oak in our dining room set has a lot of yellow and orange tones. Other woods have the cherry and deep brown tones. I think the traditional colors of autumn will contrast well with the creams, blues, greens, and eggplant, and the wood tones of our home..

​It has been an interesting challenge for me to decorate with more neutral colors and focus on keeping arrangements simple. At the end of the day, I find it to be a very calming palette and I'm so glad that I gave it a go. It's also been good to look at my home decor items in a new way and move them around. Like many things, when you start to make one change, it has a domino effect. The fireplace basket moved to the dining room table. The coal basket in the living room is now in front of the fireplace. The pineapple lanterns flank the bookshelves. Soon, I'll be posting about the new "Gathering Room" sign in the family room that replaced a long time floral swag. In the mean time...

Aren't these great photos? The photo on the right is my Grandpa and Grandma Hanig's wedding photo. The photo on the right is of my mom as a beautiful bride on her wedding day arriving at the church.

​One of my very favorite home decor "items" are family photos. Maybe it's because I live 800 miles from my mom and many extended family members. Maybe it's because my siblings and I "ended up at the four corners of the earth", as my parents predicted, but were truly dismayed that we fulfilled their prediction. (Actually the four of us are all in the United States, and for a few years we were all located somewhere off of Interstate 80 in various states.) Never-the-less, I had been doing a lot of "thinking" about updating family photo displays and it was finally time to get them off the floor, out of the box, and on the walls!

Uncle Jul and Aunt Leone as a young couple

​​ One inspirational lady for this post was my dad’s Aunt Leone. We stayed with Aunt Leone and Uncle Jul in Gainesville, Florida, for our first big family trip to Disney World. This was back in the late 60's or early 70's. It was a major vacation for us, made possible by the generosity and hospitality of Aunt Leone and Uncle Jul.

Uncle Jul and Aunt Leone standing next to an antique car, belonging to their son Bob.

​ Aunt Leone had photos of her family all throughout their house. They were on the walls, under glass on dressers in all of the bedrooms, in the living room, and even in small frames in the bathroom. I thought it was great and loved looking at all the photos. You knew she loved each and everyone of the grandchildren, children, family, and friends in those photos.

​ I overheard my mom and Aunt Leone reminiscing over the photos. Then, Mom recalled that she had read a magazine article that said you should only display family photos in bedrooms, not in the living areas of your home. Aunt Leone got a twinkle in her eye and gave a little giggle, and said, "Oh, really?" Then she giggled some more, as only Aunt Leone was prone to do. The photos made her happy, and magazine articles made no difference to her. At some point in my adult life of home ownership, I made conscious decision to include family photos in my home decor, just like Aunt Leone and my mom.

Uncle Jul and Aunt Leone loved children and all were welcome in their home.

I love hanging a wreath on my kitchen window. This one was made from a garland that I wound into a circle two times. I added the black grow grain ribbon with the polka dots. These make me happy, too. I first took this photo in early spring. Soon, there were little buds on the trees and eventually a wall of lush greenery. Mother Nature always completes the picture. I placed the mercury glass votives on the window sills as an afterthought. I like how they shine when the light comes through the window. Just imagine what they will look like on a sunshiny day!

So, in January, I got busy. I had been overthinking things for too long, and had photos I wanted to display and rearrange. Here is a report on my progress so far.First up, I decided to change things out as part of my view out my kitchen window. Christmas decorations were packed away, including my favorite holiday plates that I hang on either side of my kitchen cabinets that border the window just above the sink. I decided I would replace the decorative plates with fun photos. After all, the view out the kitchen window is a little stark and bleak in January. I chose photos of my Dad and my husband, both as babies. Perhaps, the most important reason for including family photos in your décor is that you love the subjects of the photos and they bring back happy memories.

My husband, Bob, was such a cute, baby boy!

Dad as a little one getting a bath in a tub!

I had these particular photos in a file on my computer. This enabled me to print both of them in black and white and add the titles "Bath Time" and "Love" to the photos. I have a small laminator, and because these are near the kitchen sink, I decided to laminate them for extra protection. (I'll include a link to a tutorial for this quick and easy clipboard photo project, soon.

This photo display even makes washing dishes a little more fun!

​ ​These photos have been lots of fun to have in the kitchen and I have gotten lots of questions and compliments on them. Family photos can be great conversation starters with guests in your home.

These are my absolutely favorite photo collages on a wall in our kitchen/family room. They warm my heart, as only the people in the photos could.

One of my absolute favorite photo displays is also in our kitchen/family room. My Grandma Marshall was known for her angel food cake. As a young girl, I can remember going out to get fresh eggs from the hen house for Grandma to make angel food cake. Then, I would stand on a small gray chair next to her at the countertop, and watch and chat as she made the cake.

​One Mother's Day, I had the idea to have Grandma's angel food cake recipe framed with photos of Grandma and Mom and me, for my Mom. (My Aunt Phyllis helped me out with photos and the recipe.) I had the photos and recipe professionally matted and framed. I gave it to my Mom for Mother's Day and immediately vowed, that when I had a home of my own, I would make one for my kitchen. This is the result above. It was my house warming gift to me! (Since then, I've also made a similar one for my sister, using photos of Grandma and Sandra and Mom.)

Later, I had the idea to do something similar with photos of my dad and me. Photos, a silver dollar, and a song were the focus of this collage. Dad had served in the Korean War.

Prior to Dad being deployed to Korea, a good family friend, Annie Rose, gave him 4 silver dollars for good luck. Dad gave me one, when I moved from Iowa to Pittsburgh—for good luck. The silver dollar had to be in the collage. I added a photo of my dad in uniform with the family dog, Pepper.

Next, came the song. When I married my husband, Bob, I chose Nat King Cole's song, "Unforgettable" as our father/daughter dance song. That was a definite for the collage.

Lastly, I had a photo of Dad just looking at me as a baby. I took all of my treasures to the same frame shop and had them professionally mat and frame the second collage to match the first collage. (Side note: I scanned the original photos and made prints from the scans, leaving the originals intact. That is my personal preference when framing precious memories.)

​ I treasure these two collage photo displays. The collage of Grandma, Mom, angel food cake, and me was framed a few years before the photo collage of my dad. I am so glad I had them professionally framed and that the framer was able to match the frame and matting. The similarity in frames and matting add visual cohesiveness to this display.

Dad, Mom, and me

Great photo of Bob's oldest brother, Tom.

The kitchen sink photos were so much fun, I decided to, change out the decorative plates in the living room for more photos. I had two matching frames. Some black and white kitchen towel ticking became the background for the photos. (Once again a tutorial for these photos will be coming soon .

Marshall-Zwiefel farm at sunset on a snowy, winter's evening.

My husband, Bob, took the barn photos at sunset on a cold, Iowa winter day. Obviously, these are not “family” photos, but they are photos of the barn on my grandparent’s farm in Clarion, Iowa. I have many fond memories of time “at the farm”, as we called it. I am so grateful that my husband, with his artistic eye and talent captured these images. They are displayed at the bottom of our staircase. The black frames add visual cohesiveness, and the subject matter is allowed to be center stage. Staying with one color of frame can tie a group of photos together.

​I hung more photos from the same winter’s day in our bathroom of “the farm”.

Each day begins with remembering good times at "the farm" . It's a great way to start the day

I was once read that silver frames are excellent for displaying black and white vintage photos . When I lived in my townhouse, I framed many vintage black and white photos of my grandparents and some of my parents, too, and hung them altogether on a gallery wall. The silver added elegance to the photos and enhanced the coloring.

​Vintage cameras make fun decorating accessories. Consider adding one to a vintage photo display. Here is one of favorite photos. This is my mom, Inez Marshall Hanig on her wedding day. Isn't she beautiful!

I love surrounding myself with "my favorites" in my sewing room/guest room. I had wanted to update this wall for ages, and after much "over thinking", I did it! The handmade mirror from an uncle of my husband, anchors the wall. More family photos surround the mirror. I also included favorite prints by Tasha Tudor from the "Secret Garden" in this gallery.

I am very proud of my nieces and nephews in the top collage. I thought this frame was perfect for their graduation photos. Those cute babies in the second collage are Bob and me.

My sewing room/guest room is my sanctuary. I have always had family photos displayed here. I decided to do a little update. I purchased two new frames.Wal-Mart had this collage frame. I put graduation photos of my nieces and nephews in it.I put a collage of family photos in long, horizontal collage photo frame purchased at Michael’s Craft Store. It is part of their vintage frame collection.

Vintage photo of Bob's Uncle Tony.

​ This was a “rescued” photo from Bob’s family. His mother was going to throw it out. Fortunately, he saved it and brought it home. This is one of his dad’s older brothers, Uncle Tony. The period clothing, shoes, and hair are priceless. I love that he is posed with a book. The teacher in me, and the life long book lover had to hang this precious photo in my sewing room.

​​ I also have a wall of photos on the wall that is the background for my sewing machine. Family photos of my grandfather with his parents, my grandparents with the beginnings of their family, and “the farm”, all flank a hand pieced quilt made by my great-grandmother.

There are more photos of family and friends displayed in our home. (I had photos of my Dad and Bob's Dad as young men in their United States Army uniforms displayed in the powder room from Memorial Day through July Fourth. It was a nod to their service to our country.)

I have so enjoyed sharing this post with you. It's been a so heart warming to remember the people I love and who have loved me.

Two very special people, Aunt Leone and Uncle Jul, celebrating an anniversary.

Family photos displayed throughout our home give Bob and I so much pleasure. In some small way, I hope to be just a little bit like Aunt Leone, displaying photos above the kitchen sink, on the walls of the kitchen, in the sewing room, master bathroom, bedrooms and even in the powder room. (For the longest time, I had a photo of my cousin Mark's children as toddlers in the laundry room!) I'm sure, Aunt Leone would approve and would give a giggle. In my opinion, family photos make a house a home. They tell your story. They make you feel loved.

How and where do you display your favorite photos in your home? I'd love to hear your stories!

​it took me awhile to figure out my early fall decor, but once I did, the pieces began to fall in place. I needed a second table runner for our dining room table. It seemed like a natural progression for me from a coffee table runner trimmed in black grow grain ribbon with white polka dots to a white and black buffalo plaid table runner. The white and black buffalo check plaid runner was even easier than my first table runner. (Click HERE for the first table runner.)

This is the first no sew runner that I am using on our coffee table. I decided a black and white buffalo check plaid runner for the dining room table. Our living room and dining room are in the same room, so I wanted a coordinating runner, but not a matching runner.

The first whimsical table runner is multi-seasonal, as is the second one. I like decor items that I can mix and match and change out no matter what the season. Click HERE for tutorial

​I found black and white buffalo check plaid no pill fleece at Walmart for a very reasonable price. I was able to purchase 3 yards, at 60 inches wide for less than $15.00. I wanted a wider table runner to offset the size of the basket that I was planning to use as a daily center piece. I used my rotary cutter and mat to cut a piece of fleece 21 inches wide by 84 inches long.

​The buffalo check fabric made it particularly easy to cut a straight line. The rotary cutter, cutting mat, and quilting ruler did the rest. My rotary cutter, self healing mat, and ruler are some of my favorite crafting tools. I use them for quilting, sewing, and paper crafts. The rotary cutter looks like a pizza cutter, but the blades are very, very sharp. There are several YouTube video tutorial on using a rotary cutter. Click HERE for one short video.

​Here is a sampling of my rotary cutters. Rotary cutters, replacement blades, healing mats, and rulers can all be purchased at a fabric store. I watch for sales and coupons at JoAnn Fabrics and Crafts. Most people will only need one rotary cutter, but I use mine all the time and for different projects and materials. They make my crafting easier and my cutting more precise.

Once the fabric was cut, I decided to leave the long edges untouched. The rotary cutting makes such a clean edge and the fleece laid flat on my table. You have options in finishing the edges: serging the edges with a serge sewing machine, using a decorative stitch on a regular sewing machine, turing the edges and hemming, or leaving a "naked" edge. I went with the "naked" edge.​

The edge of the fleece runner can be left as is. The fleece doesn't require hemming, as it lays flat and has a nice weight to it for hanging. This is one option.

​Next option was to fringe or not to fringe. Here is Option 1: The runner with a clean edge, no fridge. It hangs well and is nice and neat.

I wanted a very narrow fringe, so I made the cuts between 1/8 to 1/4 inch. This is a personal choice. Take a look at how it turned out.

​Option 2: Cut a six inch fringe, using the rotary cutter and quilting ruler as a guide. I went with option 2, as I really wanted a fringe. (I hear they are trending for 2018!) Usually, when making a fleece no-sew blanket, people cut the fringe about 2 inches wide and not it. I wanted a smoother finish with narrow strips for fringe.

I chose to use the rotary cutter and ruler to cut a six inch fringe. Each cut was about 1/8 to 1/4 inch wide. I just "eyeballed" my cuts. The rotary cutter was very helpful in making clean, precise cuts. Using the quilting ruler helped to keep the cuts square, as did the plaid of the material.

Cutting Tip: Painter's tape can be used to make accurate cuts.

Finished fringe. The painter's tape made it easy to make accurate cuts.

​Tip: Use a strip of painter's tape to mark the cutting line. This will help you to make all of your cuts the same length and not exceed your 6 inch mark. (I thought I could do this easily, since the buffalo check plaid striping was my guide. But, alas, my mind wandered and I made one cut much longer than 6 inches. That's when I decided to use the painter's tape on the opposite edge.)

I am really pleased with the look of this narrow fringe. Using a rotary cutter and ruler made quick work of creating this fringed, no-sew table runner.

​That's it! Measuring, cutting, and cutting the fringe! I am very pleased with how this turned out. I am usually the one, making something that is much more labor intensive. I stuck to my goals of keeping my early fall decor simple and elegant. In this case, the fleece fabric and buffalo check were factors in the ease of this project. I have more fleece left over from my $15.00 purchase that I can use to make pillows, placemats, and more!

​ I am not quite ready to go full on with the oranges and red colors of fall. I wanted to experiment with bringing in some creams, turquoise, and pops of apple greens (or in this case "pear green".)

Step 1: Create a base from a fun turquoise plate and a cassoulet dish.

upside down cassoulet dish + plate = cake plate

Step 1: Create the cake plate: 1 plate + 1 smaller dish = cake plateI specifically was looking for turquoise accent pieces for my early fall decor. I like the height a cake plate can add to a vignette. I have been known to create my own cake plates with a plate, candlestick, and spray paint. (Click HERE﻿to see tutorial.) I thought I would have to do that, but I found a turquoise plate and the small cassoulet dish at TJ Maxx for $3.00 each. All I had to do was turn the cassoulet dish over and center the plate on top. I chose not to use glue to hold the pieces together. I like having the flexibility of reusing the pieces in another way at another time. Gluing the two pieces together is an option.

Step 2: Add a candle ring. I like all the variety that is available for pips berry candle wreaths.

Cake plate + pip berry candle ring

​Step 2: Add a large candle ring to the plate. I used a pips berry candle ring with green, cream, blue, and eggplant colored berries. I already had this candle ring and it goes great with my vision of early, fall, home decor colors.

​I am pleased with this sweet, little vignette. I think it looks great on my no sew table runner. (Click HERE for table runner tutorial.) I wanted to keep the look clean and uncluttered. The turquoise, "pear green", and creams take center stage. This was fun to do and I am excited that I have more pumpkins, polka dot ribbon, matching candle rings that I can use else where in my living room and family room to continue my color scheme and theme. What do you think?

Here are a few pieces of gathered together for more early fall decor! I can't wait to show you the possibilities!

Want to see more simple, early fall, decorating ideas? Subscribe to the newsletter and have posts delivered to your email.

​After "auditioning" a few different fabrics from my fabric stash, this home decor fabric in a neutral shade with a pronounced weave texture, and just a hint of sparkle made the cut for my no sew table runner. I thought the black grow grain ribbon with white polka dots added just the right amount of whimsy to give this neutral runner some fun! The best part of this project is that it is no sew and "so-o-o-o" easy to put together!

Can you see the hints of sparkly thread in this close up? It brings a bit of sophistication and just the right amount of fun. The fabric was originally purchased at JoAnn Fabric (on sale--of course!)

I spent the most time on this project in fabric selection. I was not ready to commit to all the oranges, reds, and golds of fall. I also wanted to try my hand at adding some neutrals with pops of turquoise and blue. Then, another factor was the beautiful graining of our coffee table and the dark stain. I considered using burlap, but I had some gorgeous lengths of home decor fabric that we had used to make pillows using my husband's art work. This particular fabric has the "look" of burlap gone glam!

I chose the lighter of the fabrics, to contrast with the dark stain of the coffee table. It has a nice weave that doesn't compete with the graining of the wood and just the slightest bit of sparkle! I love a little sparkle! ​

I liked the pop of polka dots so much on the front door wreath, that I decided to continue the polka dots in the indoor decor.

This particular fabric fringed beautifully! The grow grain ribbon with polka dots did not fringe in a pretty manner. I used my pinking rotary blade to give the ribbon edges a finished look and extended the length to the end of the fringe.

​I like the punch of whimsy that the black grow grain ribbon with white polka dots added to our front door wreath. (Click HERE for Late Summer to Early Fall Wreath.) I decided to add the same ribbon to the runner. Once I decided on the materials, the rest was easy

Directions for No Sew Runner

Materials Needed:

Fabric, preferably one that will easily fringe. I liked the weight of my home decor fabric. It lays really nicely.

Seam Ripper Tool or Straight Pin (Use one of these to fringe the ends of the runner.)

Heat 'n Bond Iron On Permanent Adhesive Tape

Iron

2 Lengths of Ribbon cut to the same size as the length of your runner.

​DIRECTIONS:

Cut material to size. Make sure you add a half inch for each long side of the runner.

Fringe the ends of the runner. I used my seam ripper tool, and gently pulled the thread out, one thread at a time.

Cut 2 pieces of Heat 'n Bond Iron On Permanent Adhesive Tape the same length as the runner. These will be ironed on the wrong side of the fabric.

Follow the directions of the iron on tape for adhering the tape to the wrong side of the fabric. Plan to position tape about 1/2 inch from the edge of fabric. (This will allow you to make a 1/2 inch folded hem.)

After tape is adhered, fold the edges of fabric over a 1/2 inch, iron following directions on packaging, to create a smooth, no sew hem.

Use the same process to adhere strips of ribbon with the iron on adhesive tape.

My home decor fabric was easy to fringe using a seam ripper to pull the threads out, row by row. If you don't have a seam ripper, a straight pin will serve the same purpose. I used a pinking rotary blade to finish the end pieces of the ribbon. Pinking shears could be used, too.)

The iron on adhesive tape is really easy to use. I used the permanent bond tape. My tape specifically said NOT to attempt to sew through it by hand or by machine. I learned the hard way on another project, that you DO NOT want to try to sew through permanent, no sew tape. Lesson Learned: When in doubt: read package directions and follow them!

Once you iron the adhesive tape down, an adhesive strip will be left. Now you can iron on the ribbon, or fold over the edge to create a smooth, no sew hem. Once again, read and follow the packaging directions. The product I used said to let the tape cool, before peeling it up. I also found that the backing came off the most cleanly by pulling the tape directly up (not at a slant) and close to the fabric.

In a matter of an hour, the runner was ready for the coffee table. All it needed was to be accessorized. I just love the polka dot ribbon. It really gives the runner personality.

​I wanted to create an easy, no sew, fun, table runner. I like the simplicity of the piece, as well as the nod to whimsy. Once again, I am tickled that I used materials I already had and materials that make me happy: Sparkle + Polka Dots = FUN!

Want to see how I accessorized the table? It was all about layering and as easy as 1, 2, 3! Click HERE for more.

I was out shopping for "basics" at Walmart and "wandered" into the fall decor aisle and the home decor aisles. I noticed that they had some very reasonably priced burlap table runners. One could purchase a premade table runner and add some cute ribbon to match your decor and personal taste. In a matter of minutes a custom table runner could be created

More inspiration pieces...

Gathering fun things to play with in early fall home decor!

Polka dots and buffalo check...

​I also found some no pill fleece in black and white buffalo plaid in the fabric department. I think that is going to be made up into a no sew table runner for the dining room table. What could be more fun than putting black ribbon with white polka dots and black and white buffalo plaid with pops of turquoise and "pear" green?! Oh, the places my mind is going!

...and turquoise and pear green...

...and so much more to come!

Don't miss out on late summer to early fall decorating ideas. Subscribe and have ideas delivered right to your email address.​

​I love the deep, rich, colors of fall, but I am reluctant to begin decorating with orange leaves, pumpkins, and acorns, too, soon. After all, it is just the beginning of September, and there is still a lot of green left where we live. So, I decided to try my hand at some "transition" decor for late summer to early fall. Pale blues, creams, and apple green are the colors I have chosen, with pops of yellow sunflowers and black grow grain ribbon with white polka dots.

Isn't this wreath beautiful?! Don't you just love the color of her front door and the contrast of colors in this photo? Check out the entire post on Stone Gate.

​Where to begin? How about with the wreath on the front door? The above wreath from Yvonne of Stone Gate was my inspiration piece. I adored this wreath with its green apples, sunny sunflowers, and that very fun, striped, burlap, wired ribbon. Yvonne has an excellent tutorial on creating this wreath and some great tips for making an elegant, expensive looking wreath for minimal cost in materials. She is my hero! Please check out her post HEREand consider following her blog, on Pinterest, and Facebook. The Stone Gate blog is one of my favorites!

This was definitely not the color combination that I had envisioned. The greenery was too, bluish. I wanted something closer to a spring green or apple green. This color combination would not do.

​Even with Stone Gate's excellent tutorial, I had a difficult time recreating the beautiful wreath. The problem was me. I fell in love the the burlap ribbon she had use. I became obsessed with finding the exact ribbon she had used or at least something close to it. I searched and searched online, for days. Secondly, I loved the apple green floral and greenery she repurposed from her summer wreath. I went on a hunt at all the local craft stores for such greenery. I came up short in that pursuit, too. I even purchased some bluish, green faux eucalyptus greenery, and dusty miller that I thought might work as the greenery. I brought them home and paired them with the sunflowers. Epic fail is too, dramatic, to describe the look, but the two definitely didn't compliment each other.

Low and behold--I already had these materials! (At one point, I had even considered taping off the burlap in long stripes and spray painting the exposed stripes in black. Even I thought that was a little extreme! Thank goodness, I came to my senses and black ribbon with polka dots was the solution!)

Finally, I stopped all the madness of my perfectionistic obsessing over finding the "same" materials as the inspiration piece, and reoriented myself. I reminded myself of two of my core decorating principles: 1.) What did I already have available to me, that I loved? 2.) How can I achieve what Yvonne had accomplished, with what WAS available?. I needed to step back and analyze the elements of the inspiration piece that I liked, and that would help me create my own wreath. The elements that I liked were:

Unique, burlap ribbon: It was a little whimsical and unexpected.

Color scheme: The green apples contrasted with the bright, yellow sunflowers, contrasted with the black in the ribbon. The contrasting, playful colors were very appealing to me.

The overall wreath: It just said fun! It is a nod to the coming fall, but says, let's keep celebrating these late summer days!

​That's when everything started to fall into place. I had burlap ribbon. I had black, grow grain ribbon, with white polka dots. I love that polka dot ribbon! It adds a little whimsy to anything it graces. As for the apple green greenery that I was looking for---it was already hanging in my front door wreath! (Just like the original inspiration piece! The right greenery was right under my nose!) All I had to do, was dismantle the summer florals and I had the base of my new front door wreath. From there on, the wreath design easily came together.

I used iron on adhesive tape to secure the black grow grain ribbon to the burlap ribbon.

First, I began my experimentation with burlap ribbon and the polka dot ribbon. I realized I could attach the black grow grain ribbon, with white polka dots with a permanent iron-on adhesive, no-sew tape. I used Heat 'n Bond Ultra Hold iron on permanent tape. The burlap ribbon and black grow grain ribbon were not wired ribbon. I had to work a little harder, twisting the ribbon combination to form the bow, but ultimately, I was able to fashion a bow to my liking. (Design principle: Use what you already have!) I think it turned our pretty well!

Sometimes, I have a hard time letting go of a piece and moving on to the next season. Does that happen to anyone else? The red geraniums, purple lilacs, and pussy willows had served me well for my red, white, and blue summer deco, but it really was time for me to move on.

​For a brief moment, I considered just attaching the new bow to my summer wreath. After all, the new bow gave the wreath new life. That thought lasted for about five minutes, after which, I decided to forge ahead.

The beginning: grapevine wreath, repurposed greenery from the spring and summer wreath, and the newly made polka dot, burlap bow.

I did a little shopping, and found some lime green mum, floral stems on sale at JoAnn Fabrics. The original lime green florals on my summer wreath were showing some wear from the summer sun and rain. I thought the mums would be the perfect filler, to hide any weariness.

Next, I followed the tutorial on Stone Gate. She wired two grapevine wreaths together to give the wreath more presence and depth. This was a trick she does to make her wreaths look similar to the more expensive custom wreaths you find in floral design shops. I would've never thought of that, so I gave it a go. I couldn't find the grapevine covered wire that she used, so I used a brown wire that I already had to secure the two wreaths together. (I am still going to search for the grapevine covered wire. I think that could have many uses.)

With the wreaths secure, the real fun began! I added 2 bushes of lime green mums and then 2 bushes of sunflowers. I trimmed the stems into individual flowers and workable lengths with wire cutters. I didn't use hot glue to place my florals. Instead, I poked the stems of the florals into gaps in the grapevines. In most cases, the florals stay securely in place.

(Tip: Since I forgo the hot glue, I can easily dismantle the wreath and rework it for future seasons.)

When needed, I bent the wires and intertwined them among the vines. I repeated the process for arranging the sunflowers at the top of the wreath. I attached the bow to the top center.

​I continued to follow Stone Gate's tutorial for hot gluing the green, faux apples in place. I had a little difficulty with hot gluing the apples to the wreath, and had a few false starts. This was where the double wreath was an advantage. Using the hot glue gun, and one of the larger green apples, I lodged the apple into the crook between the two wreaths. Then, I added another green apple next to it. It helped to glue one apple to another and the wreath. This added stability to the apples. I did glue a small green apple to the front of the wreath, but once again, made sure I also glued the smaller apple to the other apples on the wreath.

Tip for using hot glue: Finger Guards: I discovered these finger guards while shopping for a new hot glue gun. I can't resist using my fingers to place and position things when I am using hot glue. These little gems have saved my fingers time and time again. In fact, I bought a second pack and sometimes wear all six guards! ​

​I trimmed the ribbons, so the apples could easily be viewed. This is something I learned from studying Stone Gate's wreath. I have a tendency to leave the ribbon tails long, but often times, parts of the wreath are covered. I noticed her ribbon tails were trimmed to show off the entire wreath.

​Lastly, I hung the wreath on our front door. What do you think?

Of course, my eye wandered to the "Welcome" frame on the left side of the door. I purchased this simple framed sign at JoAnn Fabric in the spring . I was so pleased with it, that it stayed anchored in that spot all summer long. The eggs in the nest and the greenery were fading, but I still liked the framed sign. Once again, I decided to use what I had and updated it!

​(I saw another blogger, replace the eggs in a nest like this with acorns! It was very cute, too!)

​I removed the nest from the center of the frame. It was very well anchored, but with scissors and patience, I was able to remove the nest and trim most of the bits and pieces away. Any excess remains, would be covered by a green apple and sunflowers. I wanted to keep it simple, The simplicity of the piece was one of the elements that pleased me. Even still, the apple with two sunflowers seemed a little stark. I glued additional pieces of sunflower leaves on the piece and added a sunflower in the corner. Now, the "Welcome" sign was complete.

​Tip for hanging the wreath: Since I wired two grapevine wreaths together, the wreath is heavier. I use Command hooks to hang my wreath. This wreath requires the wreath hooks made to hold up to 5 lbs.

Once again, I want to thank Yvonne of Stone Gatefor her excellent tutorial. Her wreath was the inspiration for my wreath. Once I gave up my obsession with the materials of her wreath and analyzed the elements of it, I was able to be true to my decorating sense: use what I have, and use what I love! I learned a lot from the tutorial and learned even more about myself in creating this wreath.

Now, that I have some of the elements defined for my late summer/early fall decor, I can move forward with making a new table runner (accented with black grow grain ribbon and polka dots). I predict there will be more burlap in the future and neutral accents in pale blue, creams, and pops of apple green! I will keep you "posted"!

​We will never share your email address with anyone.

Get all the latest from Our Welcoming Home delivered directly to your email address. Subscribers will have access to free reproducibles and more.Thank you for subscribing.